Names that end in y

Emy is a feminine name that functions as a shortened form of names like Emily, Emma, or Emilia. This diminutive version offers a sweet, modern simplicity while maintaining connections to its longer counterparts, which dictate its meaning.

Emily derives from the Latin "aemulus" meaning "rival" or "emulating," while Emma has Germanic roots meaning "whole" or "universal." Emmy and Emmie are more popular spellings of the name, with about 700 and 400 baby girls respectively given the name last year, while Emy was used for only 65 girls. 

But in France and other French-speaking countries, Emy is the preferred spelling, perhaps because of its similarity to the French Remy, ranking in the Top 100.

The New Jersey cities of Camden and Trenton are in, but the name of the state has not caught on to anywhere near the same extent, possibly due to its association with knitted pullovers and reality TV. Nevertheless, Jersey peaked as a masculine name in 2022, when it was given to around 60 boys.
 
The etymology of Jersey is not certain, but it may derive from the Norse name Geirr which means "spear", with the suffix -ey meaning "island". Alternative theories suggest it comes from jarl , meaning "earl" or hjǫr meaning "sword".
 
YouTube family and social media stars The Mighty McClures named their son Jersey in 2017, who joined old twin sisters Ava and Alexis.

Jersey

Jovany may be easier to understand for English speakers, but the more serious and authentic Jovan or Giovanni would be better choices.

Jovany

Korey

Keely is well-used in modern Ireland, also found as Keeley and Keela.  The boys' form is Keelan.  Largely unknown in the US, this could make an interesting update for Kelly or Kaylie or Kylie -- though it might ultimately prove to close to one of those trendy names.

Keely

Ultimately, many parents attracted to Tinley's appealing -inley rhythm may decide they can do better with the first syllable than "tin" and move on to Finley, Brinley, or Kinley.

Tinley

A surnamier take on Isla. Isley may be derived from the German occupational surname Eisele (of the same pronunciation), or be related to the Old English word hesli, meaning "hazel grove." The Eisley spelling is about twice as popular, but both versions together are given to about 200 baby girls in the US each year.

Isley

Bray

A rising surname name for girls — it's overwhelmingly feminine, despite the association with Kenny Chesney.

Chesney

Josey is a sweet, approachable feminine name typically considered a diminutive form of Josephine, which derives from the Hebrew name Joseph meaning 'God will add.' This spelling variation, with an 'ey' ending rather than the more common 'ie' (as in Josie), gives the name a slightly distinctive quality while maintaining its familiar sound. Josey has a vintage charm that recalls rural Americana and has experienced occasional use throughout the 20th century. The name gained some recognition through the film 'The Outlaw Josey Wales,' though there it was used as a masculine name. With its friendly, unpretentious quality, Josey appeals to parents seeking a name that balances traditional roots with casual warmth and simplicity.

Josey

A name that's long been popular for dogs on Chicago's North Side is now gaining traction among human babies. Wrigley Field is the Chicago Cubs' historic ballpark, originally named after the Wrigley Company, which made and sold chewing gum. 

Wrigley

Kiley is one of the more reasonable of the Kylie variations, which also include Kilea, Kilee, Kileigh, Kili, Kilie, Kylee, Kyley, Kyli, ad infinitum. Despite its similarity to the popular Riley, the high ranking Kylie will ensure that this choice comes with spelling confusion. For our part, we'd rather people stuck with the original Kylie, especially seeing as that is a Noongar Aboriginal word.

Kiley

This old man nickname feels remarkably fresh when applied to girls and can be used as a short form of Lena, Helena, Magdalena, Lennon or Lennox. The pan-European Leni is identical in sound yet feels a little lighter and fresher, and is a fashionable favorite in Germany.
 
Lenny is trending upwards for girls with about 50 receiving this name per year - if you add in Leni, Lenni & Lennie, it's more like 350.

Lenny

A would-be up-and-comer if it wasn't for the spiked seltzer brand.

Truly

Blakley is a feminine name with English origins, though it's also used occasionally for boys. Originally a surname derived from Old English elements 'blæc' (black) and 'leah' (clearing, meadow), meaning 'dark clearing' or 'dark meadow.' As a first name, Blakley emerged following the trend of using surnames as given names. It has a contemporary feel while maintaining a connection to traditional naming practices. The name has gained some popularity in recent decades, particularly in the United States, as parents seek distinctive names with a modern edge. Blakley offers a balance of strength and femininity with its hard 'k' sound softened by the ending.

Blakley

Rickey is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of Richard, which comes from Germanic elements meaning 'powerful' and 'ruler' or 'brave.' This friendly, approachable variant gained popularity in America during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. Notable bearers include baseball legend Rickey Henderson, which enhanced the name's sporty, energetic associations. While Rickey has declined in usage since its peak, it maintains a casual charm and retro appeal. Many Rickeys may go by Rick or use Rickey as a nickname, appreciating its unpretentious, amiable quality that balances familiarity with a touch of distinctive character.

Rickey

One of the first reality show-inspired names (he was a Texas hunk on an early season of "Survivor"); hugely trendy for boys but just starting for girls. 

Colby

Bodey

Riley is the spelling of this lively Irish name most often picked for girls, but this version is occasionally used. 

Reilly

Anny is a charming feminine name that serves as a variant of Annie, which itself originated as a diminutive of Ann/Anne. The root name derives from the Hebrew Hannah, meaning 'grace' or 'favor.' This particular spelling with a 'y' ending gives the name a slightly more whimsical, modern feel while maintaining the warm, friendly qualities associated with Annie. Anny has seen varying levels of usage across different English-speaking countries and is also found in several European countries including France and Czech Republic. While not as common as the traditional Annie spelling, Anny offers a subtle twist on a classic name, providing familiarity with a touch of distinctive character. Its brevity and friendly sound make it both accessible and endearing.